ICNA Denounces Attack on New Haven Mosque

051519

—FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—

NEW YORK, NY (May 15, 2019) – The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) denounces the arson attack the Diyanet Mosque of New Haven last Sunday as a senseless act of hatred that goes against the core American values of religious freedom and tolerance.
ICNA stands behind the Muslim community of Connecticut in solidarity and offers any assistance needed in rebuilding the Mosque, that has been completely destroyed, and in ensuring that the community is confident and comfortable in exercising their religious rights during this blessed month of Ramadan.

ICNA calls on all people to stand together to oppose this rising religious intolerance, hatred and violence in our communities. This dangerous trend in our society can tear up the social fabric of mutual love and respect that always existed between religious communities.

In a statement the Muslim Coalition of Connecticut said “The freedom to worship in a mosque, church, synagogue, or temple must be protected from fear, intimidation, and violent acts. All of us have a stake in this, no matter the faith or tradition.”

“Anti-Muslim attacks, driven by hate and fear, have no place in our society. No one should ever have to practice their faith in fear. We need to stand united with our Muslim brothers and sisters, local leaders, state and city officials must speak out against these acts of violence,” said state Attorney General William Tong.

ICNA calls on the law enforcement agencies for a speedy investigation and urges them to treat this as an act of terror. ICNA also calls on politicians at all levels to rise to the occasion and do more to contain religious hatred in our country.

The Islamic Circle of North America is a leading American Muslim organization dedicated to the betterment of society through the application of Islamic values. Since 1968, ICNA has worked to build relations between communities by devoting itself to education, outreach, social services and relief efforts.